Ne-Yo hits the high note

At just 32, Ne-Yo’s accolades read like he’s been in the game for decades. The übertalented singer, songwriter and producer has not only scored platinum plaques for himself, but he’s also worked with some of the biggest names in music, penning hits for divas including Mary J. Blige, Beyoncé, Celine Dion and Mariah Carey. But that wasn’t enough. As he readies the release of his fifth studio album, R.E.D. (Realizing Every Dream), Ne-Yo is adding yet another title to his already crowded resume: record executive.

Ne-Yo, born Shaffer Smith, has been commissioned to help lead Motown Records back to its former glory, as senior vice president of A&R. “The pressure is definitely on,” he admits, knowing that he’ll be on the hook if the collaboration isn’t successful. But he isn’t worried. “As long as I keep the music about what’s important, which is the art, then I should be alright,” he insists.

TO READ MORE ABOUT THE R&B STAR, PICK UP THE NEXT ISSUE OF JET MAGAZINE, ON STANDS MONDAY, AUG. 27, 2012.

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